Let the numbers do the talking.
Birmingham, AL vs Montgomery, AL
Birmingham, AL vs Montgomery, AL: What the data shows
Birmingham, AL is in Birmingham, AL while Montgomery, AL is in Montgomery, AL — both in the same state. WYLT rates Birmingham, AL as “Good for now” — a solid choice worth serious consideration — and Montgomery, AL as “Think twice” — a neighborhood that warrants careful research before committing.
Both neighborhoods have similar safety profiles. Birmingham, AL has Moderate violent crime and Moderate property crime. Montgomery, AL has Moderate violent crime and Moderate property crime. On environmental risk, Birmingham, AL has Low flood risk and Montgomery, AL has Low flood risk.
Montgomery, AL is the more walkable neighborhood. Birmingham, AL scores 6/100 (car-dependent) versus Montgomery, AL's 33/100 (mostly car-dependent). For families weighing school quality, Birmingham, AL has the higher school rating — Birmingham, AL rates 6.8/10 and Montgomery, AL rates 5.6/10.
| Category | Birmingham, AL | Montgomery, AL |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | ||
| Verdict | Good for now | Think twice |
| Median Price | $436K | N/A |
| Median Rent | $1K | N/A |
| Median Income | $75K | N/A |
| Price Volatility | Moderate | Moderate |
| Getting Around | ||
| Walk Score | 6/100 | 33/100 ✓ More walkable |
| Transit Score | 24/100 ✓ Better transit | Minimal transit |
| Bike Score | N/A | N/A ✓ More bikeable |
| Commute | 30 min | N/A |
| Safety & Environment | ||
| Safety Grade | D+ | D+ |
| Violent Crime | Moderate | Moderate |
| Property Crime | Moderate | Moderate |
| Flood Risk | Low | Low |
| Air Quality | Moderate | Moderate |
| Community | ||
| Schools | 6.8/10 ✓ Better schools | 5.6/10 |
| Best for | suburban familiesstudents attending local schoolsmoderate-income households | families seeking magnet schoolsmilitary families relocating to Maxwell AFByoung professionals who drive |
Bottom line
Considering Montgomery's downtown has slightly better schools and lower flood risk, it might be the better choice for families with students attending magnet schools or military families. However, if you prioritize moderate home prices, suburban living, and decent school options, Birmingham could be a more suitable option. Overall, both neighborhoods have their drawbacks, so it's essential to weigh what matters most to you before making a decision.
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